Escape the Summer Heat With Cool August Shows at Triton's Cernan Earth and Space Center

RIVER GROVE, Ill. — We’re in the dog days of summer, and while the corn is sweating, there’s no reason you should have to. This August, step into the cool, comforting shelter of the Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College and catch an enthralling show about the universe around us, or vibe to the tune of an electrifying cosmic light show.

Visitors can enjoy family-friendly educational programs, immersive full-dome experiences and live observing opportunities throughout the month, including a Star Party with the Chicago Astronomical Society.

The schedule features a collection of shows that engage audiences with space and Earth science through storytelling, as well as programs featuring the hits of iconic music artists while dazzling light and moving images illuminate the planetarium dome, offering a cool respite before guests head back out to enjoy the summer Sun.

"The Cernan Earth and Space Center is the perfect place to explore the universe without leaving Earth," said Kris Kovach McCall, director of the Cernan Earth and Space Center. "Whether you come to learn or have fun, there's something to inspire visitors of all ages this August."

August Events at the Cernan Earth and Space Center

Star Party a.k.a. Free Observing Through Telescopes
Saturday, Aug. 22 | 7:45-10 p.m.

Join the Chicago Astronomical Society and Cernan staff for an evening of telescope observing, mainly featuring the Moon along with a chance to catch Venus before 8 p.m. and Saturn shortly after 10 p.m. All ages are welcome to explore the night sky alongside experienced amateur astronomers, so long as the sky is clear. Admission is free.

Weekly Planetarium Programs (Tickets are required.)

Saturdays

7 p.m. — Dark Biosphere

Discover the remarkable organisms living deep beneath Earth's surface in one of our planet's most extreme environments. This immersive program explores how these underground ecosystems are reshaping scientists' understanding of life on Earth and the possibility of life elsewhere in the universe.

8:30 p.m. — Cosmic Light Show: Laser Prince

Celebrate the music of Prince through dazzling laser choreography, digital effects and a soundtrack featuring some of the legendary artist's greatest hits.

Wednesdays

9:45 a.m. — The Stellars: Mission Green

Follow the adventures of the Stellars as they work to restore their spacecraft's ecosystem while learning about forests, pollinators and the importance of protecting Earth's natural environments.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays

2:30 p.m. — Unveiling the Invisible Universe

Explore the universe through gravitational waves, neutrinos and cosmic rays while discovering how scientists study the invisible forces and particles that reveal the origins of the cosmos.

4 p.m. — Matinee Cosmic Light Shows

• Aug. 4-6: Laser David Bowie
• Aug. 11-13: Laser Prince
• Aug. 18-20: Laser Led Zeppelin
• Aug. 25-27: Laser Michael Jackson

These afternoon laser concerts combine music from iconic artists with brilliant laser effects, digital imagery and the planetarium's immersive dome theater.

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Media Contacts:
Melissa Ramirez Cooper | melissacooper@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3496
Hunter Oberst | hunteroberst@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3820

ABOUT TRITON COLLEGE:
Triton College, located at 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove, is a public institution of higher education dedicated to student success. Recently recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the Top 200 community colleges in the nation, Triton offers more than 130 degree and certificate programs that prepare students to pursue meaningful careers, transfer to four-year universities, and thrive in a global economy. Guided by our mission—Valuing the individual, educating and serving the community—Triton serves nearly 17,000 students annually on its 110-acre campus in River Grove, Illinois. Our dedicated faculty and staff provide high-quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities that empower students and strengthens the communities we serve. Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of The Illinois Community College Board. Illinois is home to 45 colleges in 39 community college districts. Learn more at triton.edu.